A St Albans teenager has trekked across Iceland to raise funds for people living in poverty.

Tom Murphy, from St Columba’s College, took part in the four-day hike across the Icelandic lava fields in aid of Catholic aid agency CAFOD, raising more than £1,500.

The 15-year-old said: "The walk was mentally and physically draining as we were walking for eight hours a day in the wilderness.

"My school has supported CAFOD for many years. My friends at school responded well and were raising hundreds of pounds before I left.

"The trek itself was harder and more mesmerising that I anticipated. However, the amazing sights and the knowledge that what I was doing would benefit many others less fortunate than me was a huge factor in keeping my motivation and spirits high."

Tom’s trek to Iceland is just one fundraising activities carried out for CAFOD by St Columba’s, who have already raised money for the charity this year with a sponsored penalty shoot-out and bike ride. The agency works with more than 500 partners across the world to help try and end poverty and injustice.

Tom’s mum, Finola, said: "Tom wanted to do something that was a bit of a challenge whilst raising money for CAFOD.

"Tom’s always been interested in CAFOD’s work, especially its campaigns to tackle the causes of poverty and giving people equal rights. Each year he buys presents from CAFOD’s World Gifts scheme."

CAFOD’s team leader in St Albans, Jon Stricklin-Coutinho, said: "Tom has shown that, with energy and inspiration, people can transform the lives of people living in poverty many miles from home.

"We congratulate Tom for his fantastic effort and would like to thank him for his generosity."
People can sponsor Tom at www.virginmoneygiving.com/THOMASMURPHY